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Actor Kim Hyuk finds unexpected fame through basketball

Actor Kim Hyuk said Wednesday he is “bewildered” by his skyrocketing popularity, which was initiated by his appearance on the KBS variety show “Our Neighborhood Arts and Physical Education.”

“I started receiving an enormous amount of interest after I started appearing in ‘Our Neighborhood.’ I really don’t know what to do,” he said at a press meeting held in Seoul with the co-hosts of the KBS show. In the show, celebrities form a basketball team and compete with top amateur teams throughout the country.

The 39-year-old actor, who mainly performs on stage, was nearing nonentity status prior to his appearance on the popular variety show. According to Kim, he was “a nothing.”

His fate changed in November when the producers of “Our Neighborhood” called him and offered him a spot on the team.

“I was so glad when I learned that Kim is joining the team, because I know how good he is,” said Kim’s teammate, actor Seo Ji-suk. “Not only is he good but he is also very considerate of others.”

Since joining the team, Kim has impressed viewers and teammates alike with his skills and athleticism. He had played organized basketball until his college years, when an injury forced him to give up on his dream of becoming a pro.

Kim said his appearance on “Our Neighborhood” boosted his love for the game of basketball.

“My love for the game grew after I quit basketball. I get to meet new people as I play basketball.”

He added that his newfound fame has even helped improve his relationship with his parents, who had fiercely objected to him becoming an actor.

(minsikyoon@heraldcorp.com)